***"This is not some imported ideology. It's something we invented here.
It's Biblical-Bolivarian thought," said circle member Romulo Mendez, 46. "This is our Bible," said another, holding up a copy of the little blue book that is the Chavez-inspired 1999 Constitution. The document revamped a democratic government long dominated by a corrupt elite.
The spread of what is called "Bolivarian thought" - which blurs the distinction between Chavez's Fifth Republic Movement party and the government - worries many. Before the coup, Chavez proposed allowing circle committees to inspect schools and fire teachers at will. "Bolivarian thought" is being taught at "Bolivarian schools."
But whose thought? Bolivar's big concern was winning independence from Spain and uniting South America. Recent additions come from Chavez, whom Garcia Ponce describes as "the interpreter of the hopes and desires of the people." ***
What color was that book they were waiving? The monitoring of the schools is even more chilling. I'm glad Dubya gave him such a lackluster welcome back speach...I wouldn't bet a nickel on this horse in a fair election...Hope the people are given the chance to vote!